Gov. Walz Orders Flags To Fly At Half-Staff To Honor Sgt. Wolf

ST. PAUL, MN — Gov. Tim Walz on Monday ordered all U.S. and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in honor of Army Sgt. Cade Michael Wolfe of Mankato.

Sgt. Wolfe, 24, and four other American Army service members were killed in a helicopter crash during a training exercise over the Mediterranean Sea on Friday.

"Minnesota is deeply saddened by the loss of Sgt. Cade Michael Wolfe, a Minnesotan who dedicated himself to selflessly serving our nation and keeping our country safe," Walz said in a statement.

"With deep gratitude, Minnesota recognizes Sgt. Cade Michael Wolfe for his dedicated service to, and sacrifice for, his state and country. His family, loved ones, and community are in our prayers."

Also killed in the crash were:

• Chief Warrant Officer 3 Stephen R. Dwyer, 38 of Clarksville, Tennessee
• Chief Warrant Officer 2 Shane M. Barnes, 34, of Sacramento, California
• Staff Sgt. Tanner W. Grone, 26, of Gorham, New Hampshire
• Sgt. Andrew P. Southard, 27, of Apache Junction, Arizona

All five died when the MH-60 Blackhawk — which was conducting aerial refueling training— "experienced an in-flight emergency resulting in the crash," officials said.

There are no indications the crash was caused by enemy or hostile actions, according to officials.

"Our thoughts and prayers remain with the families of the fallen," the U.S. Department of Defense wrote Monday. "The U.S. Army's Combat Readiness Center is conducting an investigation into the incident."

Walz encouraged private individuals, businesses, and other organizations to join in lowering their flags. Flags on state buildings and property will fly half-staff until sunset on Monday, Nov. 20.